The forWater Network uses knowledge mobilization to turn research into impact through partner engagement. Opportunities are identified to increase stakeholder engagement, information sharing, and collaboration throughout the research process. This seeks to ensure that new knowledge can be used when and where it's needed most.

​Through building relationships, understanding practitioner needs, and providing decision-makers with relevant information, forWater is helping make positive impacts for drinking water and forest management.

​While there are many definitions and conceptualizations of knowledge mobilization (KM), forWater has combined different approaches into four guiding principles: Accessible, Collaborative, Targeted, Actionable, that informs partner engagement within the network.
Accessible
​Accessibility ensures more people have access to information about forWater research and outcomes​
  • Free open-access to network-produced knowledge is provided whenever possible, along with directories to important resources
  • Investment in academic publishing & conference presentations disseminates research findings
  • Social media shares research findings with general public​​
Collaborative
Collaboration ensures that multiple perspectives are taken into account throughout the research process
  • ​Research objectives are collectively identified and refined
  • Engagement with multi-level stakeholders is prioritized
  • Facilitated workshops are used to support knowledge transfer, collaboration, and co-creation
Targeted
Materials are designed for different audiences to ensure a wider understanding of forWater research
  • Research findings shared using language accessible to decision-makers and professionals
  • Ongoing partner engagement is used to identify research direction
  • Conference presentations share key findings across multiple disciplines
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Actionable​
Research outcomes combined with actionable information helps mobilize new knowledge and tools into practice
  • Implications for action are identified from research findings
  • Sector-based or stakeholder-specific communiqués are created highlighting actionable considerations
  • Conversation is used to identify barriers for action, direct future research, and inform further recommendations